Tributes flood in for Kirkcaldy waiter Conor

Paul McCabe

Tributes have been paid to Conor Burns, the much loved former waiter at Pane e Vino in Kirkcaldy, after he died suddenly at the start of the week.

Conor, who was just 45 years old, gained legendary status in the town during his 10 plus years at the Hunter Street restaurant for his charm, humour and easy-going nature with all of his customers.

Conor with his partner Georgina Dickie

Tony Citro who owns Pane e Vino, had become close friends with Conor and said he was “heartbroken” at the news of his death on Monday – just 24 hours after he took ill.

“When we found out we were all shocked. We couldn’t believe it.

“He was like a brother to me. We worked for 12 years altogether. He was here from almost the beginning.

“He was amazing – people loved him.

“We spent so much time together – I used to say I’ spend more time with you than I do with my wife and family!’ It was true!

“What was amazing was that we never argued once, which is rare, especially in this line of work.

“We had a great time, we enjoyed being together, we had a laugh and I want to remember Conor this way.”

Born on October 23, 1970 in Killyclogher outside of Omagh in Northern Ireland, Conor spent almost 20 years in Kirkcaldy, before returning to Omagh six years ago.

His partner Georgina Dickie said: “He always said how much he loved working in the restaurant. Tony said he was always welcome to come back any time he wanted.

“We were coming over for a visit in November and Conor was really looking forward to it.”

Due to a back injury Conor had been unable to work recently, but still kept himself busy.

Georgina said: “He had volunteered at Killyclogher Youth Club. He was amazing with kids, he loved them and he really enjoyed helping out.”

Conor is survived by his parents, two sisters and a brother. Another brother, Brian, died two years ago. Georgina said: “Conor never quite got over it. His family are very close so this is awful for his parents.

“He died peacefully, he wasn’t in any pain. It still hasn’t hit me yet to be honest.

“It’s wonderful to see so many tributes to him on Facebook. It just shows how much people liked him.”

Tony said that Conor’s passing was a loss to Kirkcaldy.

“He was really well known in the town. Children loved him.

‘‘That accent! Just when he opened his mouth, people loved it.

“He was a part of the community here in Kirkcaldy and it will miss him. A young man, only 45 years old? It’s not fair. I will miss him deeply.”